Saudi Arabia: Amendments to Temporary Work and Seasonal Visa Regulations Forthcoming
November 4, 2024
Starting early 2025, holders of the Temporary Work Visa will be subject to a shorter duration of stay of 90 days (down from the current 180-day duration). As is currently the case, such visa holders will still be able to apply for a further 90-day extension. Additionally, Temporary Work Visa for Umrah and Hajj Services holders will be allowed to enter and stay only within specific dates throughout the pilgrimage season, which are determined by the Islamic calendar (currently, the maximum allowable duration of stay is set at four months during the pilgrimage season). Eligibility for this visa category will be limited to nationals of specific countries to ensure geographic diversity. In addition, the amended regulations provide for close coordination between the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and other government agencies, setting specific timeframes for issuing approvals and recommendations by the authorities involved in the visa process. Finally, violators of immigration rules will face stricter penalties for infringements, starting at SAR 5,000 for minor violations and increasing to SAR 50,000 (whereas currently, the maximum fines are set at SAR 15,000).
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Blog post
Director Johannes Kgotso Tiba explains the legal process and key considerations for individuals seeking to regain South African citizenship after renunciation or loss.
Blog post
Partner Kenneth Lau discusses the development and implications of Vietnam's updated work permit regulations.
Blog post
This blog explores Vietnam’s evolving work permit regulations amid growing foreign investment.
Media mentions
Partner Ángel Bello Cortés highlights the need for a strategic approach to immigration in Ireland amid growing skills shortages and compliance challenges.
Blog post
Senior Associate Stephania Bertoni Norris and Associate Kelsey McGonigle discuss how travelers and businesses should prepare for potential changes to Chile’s eligibility for the US ESTA program.
Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses Kuwait’s evolving visa landscape, talent mobility trends and emerging business opportunities for employers in 2025.
Podcast
Michali Henig of HelloFresh shares her global mobility career journey and offers insights into attracting international talent to Germany, covering immigration, relocation, integration and more.
Media mentions
Manager Kirsty Moore shares insights in a podcast interview on recent UK immigration changes, their impact on the construction industry and steps employers can take to remain compliant.
Awards
Partners Audrea Golding and Emily Allen are finalists for the 2025 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards in the Thought Leadership and Innovative Leaders categories.
Video
Explore Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and learn how to apply for permanent residency. Includes eligibility, application steps and benefits for skilled workers and graduates.
Blog post
Senior Manager Noman Khan explores Iraq’s shifting compliance landscape beyond its oil industry, highlighting emerging regulatory trends and challenges.
Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg highlights how new US visa rules restrict travel for students from Nigeria and Ghana.
Blog post
Director Johannes Kgotso Tiba explains the legal process and key considerations for individuals seeking to regain South African citizenship after renunciation or loss.
Blog post
Partner Kenneth Lau discusses the development and implications of Vietnam's updated work permit regulations.
Blog post
This blog explores Vietnam’s evolving work permit regulations amid growing foreign investment.
Media mentions
Partner Ángel Bello Cortés highlights the need for a strategic approach to immigration in Ireland amid growing skills shortages and compliance challenges.
Blog post
Senior Associate Stephania Bertoni Norris and Associate Kelsey McGonigle discuss how travelers and businesses should prepare for potential changes to Chile’s eligibility for the US ESTA program.
Blog post
Partner Azeem Mohiuddin discusses Kuwait’s evolving visa landscape, talent mobility trends and emerging business opportunities for employers in 2025.
Podcast
Michali Henig of HelloFresh shares her global mobility career journey and offers insights into attracting international talent to Germany, covering immigration, relocation, integration and more.
Media mentions
Manager Kirsty Moore shares insights in a podcast interview on recent UK immigration changes, their impact on the construction industry and steps employers can take to remain compliant.
Awards
Partners Audrea Golding and Emily Allen are finalists for the 2025 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards in the Thought Leadership and Innovative Leaders categories.
Video
Explore Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and learn how to apply for permanent residency. Includes eligibility, application steps and benefits for skilled workers and graduates.
Blog post
Senior Manager Noman Khan explores Iraq’s shifting compliance landscape beyond its oil industry, highlighting emerging regulatory trends and challenges.
Media mentions
Partner Aaron Blumberg highlights how new US visa rules restrict travel for students from Nigeria and Ghana.